Osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is most likely to develop in people aged over 45 years, although it can occur in younger people. Many people will develop symptoms as they age.

A joint is a structure that allows movement at the meeting point of two bones. Cartilage is a firm cushion that covers the ends of the two bones, absorbing shock and enabling the bones to glide smoothly over each other. The joint is wrapped inside a tough capsule filled with synovial fluid. This fluid lubricates the cartilage and other structures in the joint and keeps it moving smoothly.

In osteoarthritis, the cartilage becomes brittle and breaks down. Some pieces of cartilage may even break away and float around inside the synovial fluid.

Deterioration of cartilage can lead to degeneration in the joint. Eventually, the cartilage can break down so much that it no longer cushions the two bones.

Symptoms of osteoarthritis

The symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary from one person to the next. Some of the more common symptoms include:

stiffness

joint pain

muscle weakness.

Joints affected by osteoarthritis

All joints can be affected by osteoarthritis. Most commonly, it is the weight-bearing joints that are affected, including:

knees – sometimes due to an old injury

hips – older people are most at risk

spine – in the neck or lower back.

hands – usually the end finger joints.

Risk factors for osteoarthritis

The cause of osteoarthritis is unclear, but some risk factors have been identified. These include:

being overweight or obese

a family history of osteoarthritis

a previous injury, significant trauma or overuse of the joint.

Diagnosis of osteoarthritis

If you are experiencing joint pain, it is important to see your doctor for a diagnosis. Many different conditions can cause joint pain and they require different treatments.

Your doctor may request an x-ray of the painful joint(s) and work with you to come up with a plan to manage your symptoms. Sometimes, they may refer you to a specialist (rheumatologist or orthopaedic surgeon) if necessary.

Management of osteoarthritis

There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but the condition can be managed using exercise, weight loss, medications or surgery if necessary.

Osteoarthritis and exercise

Movement is a very important tool in the management of osteoarthritis. The right type of exercise can help to keep the joints mobile and maintain or improve function. Movement is important as it can:

maximise the health of the cartilage

maintain joint movement

improve muscle strength.

Cartilage does not have a blood supply, so it relies on the synovial fluid moving in and out of the joint to nourish it and remove its wastes. Exercises that involve moving the joints through their range of movement will also help maintain flexibility that is otherwise lost as a result of the arthritis.

Pain associated with arthritis has a weakening effect on the surrounding muscles. However, by undertaking strengthening exercises, muscle weakness can be reversed. Strong muscles will support sore joints.

Talk to your doctor, physiotherapist or exercise physiologist about suitable exercises. A variety of exercise that promotes muscle strength, joint flexibility and support, and improved balance and coordination is encouraged. Warm water exercise (hydrotherapy) and tai chi may be suitable exercise programs.

Other ways to manage arthritis

Other techniques that can help in the management of osteoarthritis include:

Education

find out about your condition. Arthritis and Osteoporosis Victoria can provide you with information and self-management courses.

Weight management

controlling weight is important for those who are overweight and have osteoarthritis in weight-bearing joints. Your doctor or dietitian may be able to advise you on safe weight loss strategies.

Medication

pain-relieving medications can help, as advised by your doctor.

Relaxation techniques

for example, muscle relaxation, meditation or visualisation – can help manage pain and the difficult emotions, such as anxiety, which are sometimes experienced by people with arthritis.

Support

seek support from others, including family, friends, work colleagues and health professionals. A support or self-help group may be another option.

Surgery

damaged joints can be replaced in cases of advanced osteoarthritis.

Patella taping, knee braces and orthotics

may be useful in the management of knee osteoarthritis. Seek advice from a physiotherapist or podiatrist.

Equipment that promotes independence

many specially designed aids and types of equipment are available to help people with painful joints. The design of this equipment, such as large-handled kitchen utensils, reduces the strain on the joints. For more information, speak to an occupational therapist.